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August 13, 2013

By RFE/RL

Indian soldiers injured in recent cross-border clashes with Pakistani forces

Reports from the divided Himalayan region of Kashmir say cross-border skirmishes were continuing into a third day between Pakistani and Indian military forces.

Artillery fire by both sides was reported across the de facto border, known as the Line of Control, in several sectors.

The shelling began shortly after midnight on August 13 and continued for several hours.

At least one civilian man was killed and several were injured in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Residents there were being evacuated away from the Line of Control.

Pakistan has accused India of launching "unprovoked" attacks since August 11.

Indian military commanders say their troops have been responding to unprovoked artillery fire by Pakistani forces.

Tensions began to flare on August 6 when five Indian soldiers were ambushed and killed near the Line of Control.

India blames Pakistan for that attack, but Islamabad denies involvement.

The shooting has destabilized a 10-year cease-fire in the disputed Muslim-majority region.

Based on reports by RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan, RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal, AP, Reuters, and AFP